Zann seeking confirmation protected land status will continue

October 31, 2013

“Nova Scotia went from 9th in Canada in percentage of protected land to 2nd. We’re leaders now and I’m proud of that fact. I’d like to hear if the new Environment Minister plans to re-open this process, or if the final protected lands plan is safe,” said Zann.

In a June email to the Department of Environment, present Natural Resources Minister Zach Churchill called for “a moratorium on protected lands in this part of the province”. In a subsequent radio interview, Churchill said some of the lands that were protected should be reconsidered.

“Colchester County families worked hard to ensure treasured lands in Birch Hill, Economy, and along the Saint Andrews and Stewiacke Rivers were protected for future generations, and many other Nova Scotians feel the same way about their protected areas,” said Zann.

In August, the NDP government approved the final protected areas plan for Nova Scotia. It concluded a multi-year process to identify lands for protection, involving several rounds of public and stakeholder consultations. The plan was met with high praise by conservation groups.

“Will Environment Minister Delorey respect that public process, or bow to private pressure from members of his Caucus to tear-up the public lands plan?”